A State-By-State Guide To Leading Live Music Venues
Live music pulses across the U.S., and every state has an iconic venue where unforgettable performances come alive.
Starry-sky amphitheaters, intimate historic theaters, and legendary concert halls have all hosted generations of artists, turning ordinary nights into lifelong memories.
Get ready to meet the stages that soundtrack the nation.
Note: Venue details, policies, schedules, and ticketing rules can change quickly, so confirm show dates, entry requirements, accessibility options, and current visitor information directly with each venue before making plans.
This guide is for general inspiration and is not affiliated with any venue, promoter, or ticketing platform.
50. The Orion Amphitheater – Alabama
Opening its gates in 2022, this cutting-edge amphitheater quickly became the crown jewel of Huntsville’s entertainment district.
With seating for 8,000 fans and state-of-the-art sound technology, every concert feels like a front-row experience no matter where you sit.
Imagine catching your favorite band on a warm Southern evening while the sun sets behind the stage.
Located at 701 Amphitheater Drive NW, Huntsville, AL 35806.
49. Alaska Center For The Performing Arts – Alaska
Nestled in downtown Anchorage, this cultural landmark has welcomed world-class performers since 1988.
Three distinct theaters under one roof mean you might catch anything from symphony orchestras to touring rock bands on any given night.
Picture yourself bundled up after a snowy evening, stepping inside to experience music that warms your soul.
Find it at 621 W 6th Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99501.
48. The Van Buren – Arizona
Phoenix’s downtown music scene got a major boost when this mid-sized venue opened its doors in 2017.
Holding around 1,800 music lovers, the space strikes a perfect balance between intimacy and energy for emerging and established artists alike.
Maybe you will discover your new favorite band here during a desert night when the music hits just right.
The address is 401 W Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85003.
47. The Hall – Arkansas
Transforming a historic 1920s building into a vibrant concert space, The Hall brought new life to Little Rock’s music culture.
Its vintage architecture blends beautifully with modern acoustics, creating an atmosphere where past and present harmonize perfectly.
Often you will find yourself tapping your feet on original hardwood floors while contemporary artists fill the air with sound.
Visit at 721 W 9th St, Little Rock, AR 72201.
46. Hollywood Bowl – California
Since 1922, this outdoor amphitheater has defined the Los Angeles concert experience under the stars.
With its distinctive band shell and hillside seating for nearly 18,000, the Bowl hosts everyone from classical orchestras to pop superstars.
Perhaps you will pack a picnic and watch fireworks light up the Hollywood Hills during a summer symphony performance.
Located at 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068.
45. Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre – Colorado
Carved between two massive red sandstone formations, this natural wonder ranks among the most spectacular concert venues on Earth.
Acoustics here are legendary, as the ancient rocks amplify sound in ways no human-built structure can replicate.
Suddenly you realize why artists consider performing at Red Rocks a career-defining milestone worth celebrating.
The venue sits at 18300 W Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465.
44. Toad’s Place – Connecticut
New Haven’s legendary rock club has launched countless careers since opening in 1975.
Over the decades, the room has hosted major names including U2, plus a famously low-key Rolling Stones stop in 1989.
Its gritty, no-frills atmosphere keeps the focus squarely on the music, where sweat and sound collide in the best possible way.
Ideally, you will catch an up-and-coming band here before they hit stadium status.
Find it at 300 York St, New Haven, CT 06511.
43. The Queen – Delaware
Originally built in 1916 as a vaudeville theater, The Queen underwent a stunning restoration to become Wilmington’s premier music destination.
Ornate details and vintage charm transport you back in time while modern sound systems keep performances crystal clear.
Somehow the ghosts of old performers seem to smile down when today’s artists take the historic stage.
Located at 500 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801.
42. The Fillmore Miami Beach – Florida
Art deco glamour meets modern concert technology at this gorgeous venue on Washington Avenue.
Originally Jackie Gleason’s television theater in the 1950s, the space now hosts contemporary acts beneath its beautifully restored chandeliers and architectural details.
Actually, you might feel like a star yourself walking through those vintage Miami Beach doors before showtime.
The address is 1700 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139.
41. Tabernacle – Georgia
Built in 1910 as a church, this Atlanta landmark found new purpose as a concert hall that preserves its spiritual atmosphere.
Vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows create an almost reverent setting where music becomes a transcendent experience.
Rarely does a venue combine such rich history with acoustics that make every note feel like a blessing.
Visit at 152 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303.
40. Hawaii Theatre – Hawaii
Since 1922, this Honolulu treasure has dazzled audiences with its neoclassical architecture and island elegance.
Lovingly restored to its original glory, the theater hosts diverse performances from Hawaiian music legends to international touring acts.
Personally, there is something magical about hearing live music in a venue where tropical breezes meet old-world sophistication.
Located at 1130 Bethel St, Honolulu, HI 96813.
39. Knitting Factory Concert House – Idaho
Boise’s downtown music hub brings big-city concert experiences to the Gem State with multiple performance spaces under one roof.
From intimate acoustic sets to full-blown rock shows, the venue adapts to whatever musical mood strikes your fancy.
Traditionally, local fans and touring bands alike praise the Knitting Factory for its welcoming vibe and top-notch sound quality.
Find it at 416 S 9th St, Boise, ID 83702.
38. Metro – Illinois
Chicago’s legendary Metro has defined the city’s alternative music scene since 1982, launching careers and hosting unforgettable shows.
Its intimate capacity of just over 1,100 creates an electric connection between performers and fans that larger venues cannot match.
Later you might realize the band you saw at Metro just won a Grammy and remember when you stood ten feet from the stage.
The address is 3730 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60613.
37. Old National Centre – Indiana
Indianapolis history runs deep at this venue, originally built in 1909 as the Murat Shrine Temple with stunning Egyptian Revival architecture.
Today it houses multiple event spaces, including the Egyptian Room where ornate columns frame the stage like something from an adventure movie.
Absolutely, you will spend half the show marveling at the incredible architectural details surrounding you.
Located at 502 N New Jersey St, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
36. Val Air Ballroom – Iowa
Since 1939, this West Des Moines dance hall has kept the tradition of live music and dancing alive through generations.
Its spring-loaded maple floor was specifically designed for dancing, making every concert feel like a throwback to a simpler, swingier era.
Curiously, many couples who met dancing here decades ago still return to relive those magical moments with their grandchildren.
Visit at 301 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50265.
35. Azura Amphitheater – Kansas
Previously known as Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre, this sprawling outdoor venue in Bonner Springs hosts the biggest touring acts each summer.
With capacity exceeding 18,000, the amphitheater offers both covered seating and lawn areas for fans who prefer a more casual concert experience.
Fortunately, Kansas summer nights provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor shows when the weather cooperates beautifully.
The address is 633 N 130th St, Bonner Springs, KS 66012.
34. Louisville Palace – Kentucky
Step into this 1928 Spanish Baroque movie palace and prepare to be transported to another world entirely.
Twinkling ceiling stars, ornate plasterwork, and lavish decorations create an atmosphere of pure theatrical magic during every performance.
The room is so visually stunning that the building itself feels like part of the show.
Find it at 625 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40202.
33. Tipitina’s – Louisiana
Named after a Professor Longhair song, this New Orleans institution has been the heartbeat of the city’s music scene since 1977.
Funk, jazz, rock, and everything in between fills this intimate club where legends are made and musical traditions continue thriving.
Usually you will leave Tipitina’s with your shirt soaked from dancing and your heart full of Louisiana soul.
Located at 501 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115.
32. State Theatre – Maine
Portland’s beautifully restored 1929 vaudeville house combines historic charm with modern concert amenities for an ideal entertainment experience.
Original architectural features like ornate moldings and vintage lighting fixtures remind you of the golden age of live performance.
Essentially, this theater proves that old buildings can teach new venues a thing or two about character and atmosphere.
The address is 609 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101.
31. Merriweather Post Pavilion – Maryland
Nestled in the woods of Columbia since 1967, this outdoor amphitheater offers a unique concert experience surrounded by nature.
Its distinctive angular roof and intimate setting for 19,000 fans create surprisingly personal moments despite the venue’s size.
Surprisingly, you might spot fireflies dancing along with the music during warm summer evening performances here.
Visit at 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD 21044.
30. House Of Blues Boston – Massachusetts
Located in the heart of Boston’s Fenway neighborhood, this venue brings Southern hospitality and blues tradition to New England.
Folk art decorations and intimate sightlines make every show feel special, whether you are seeing national headliners or local favorites.
Specifically, the Gospel Brunch on Sundays offers an unforgettable combination of soulful music and delicious food.
Find it at 15 Lansdowne St, Boston, MA 02215.
29. Fox Theatre – Michigan
Detroit’s 1928 movie palace stands as one of America’s most opulent theaters, with jaw-dropping architecture that defies description.
Siamese Byzantine styling, soaring columns, and intricate details create an environment where concerts become almost ceremonial experiences.
Precisely, this National Historic Landmark reminds us that entertainment venues can be works of art in themselves.
Located at 2211 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201.
28. First Avenue – Minnesota
Made famous by Prince and the movie Purple Rain, this Minneapolis nightclub has been the epicenter of Minnesota music since 1970.
Stars covering the walls commemorate the hundreds of legendary performers who graced this stage, creating a living museum of musical history.
Maybe you will add your own star someday, or at least dance beneath them like Prince once did.
The address is 701 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55403.
27. Duling Hall – Mississippi
Set inside the former Lorena Duling School, built in 1927, Duling Hall gives Jackson a historic room with an intimate concert feel.
Exposed brick, industrial touches, and excellent acoustics prove that unconventional spaces sometimes make the best performance halls.
Quietly, this venue has become the go-to spot for both national touring acts and beloved local musicians throughout Mississippi.
Visit at 622 Duling Ave (Suite 212), Jackson, MS 39216.
26. The Pageant – Missouri
St. Louis music fans have flocked to The Pageant since 2000 for its perfect mid-sized capacity and consistently stellar sound quality.
With room for 2,300 standing fans, the venue creates an energetic atmosphere without the overwhelming crush of larger arenas.
Thankfully, the upstairs Halo space gives you a breather and a spot to talk about the set between moments.
Located at 6161 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112.
25. The Wilma – Montana
Missoula’s historic 1921 vaudeville theater underwent loving restoration to become the cultural heart of western Montana.
Original architectural elements blend seamlessly with modern upgrades, creating a venue that honors its past while embracing contemporary performances.
Naturally, the mountain town atmosphere adds an extra layer of charm to every concert experience here.
Find it at 131 S Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802.
24. The Waiting Room – Nebraska
Omaha’s premier indie venue packs big energy into an intimate space where emerging artists and established acts share the same stage.
Local music lovers appreciate the venue’s commitment to diverse bookings and its reputation for treating both performers and audiences with respect.
Often you will discover your next favorite band here before anyone else even knows their name.
The address is 6212 Maple St, Omaha, NE 68104.
23. Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas – Nevada
Combining a concert venue, bowling alley, and restaurant under one roof, Brooklyn Bowl brings a unique entertainment concept to the Strip.
State-of-the-art sound and lighting systems ensure concerts rival any dedicated music hall, while the bowling lanes add an element of playful fun.
Really, where else can you bowl a strike between songs from your favorite band?
Located at 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109.
22. The Music Hall – New Hampshire
Portsmouth’s oldest theater has presented live entertainment continuously since 1878, making it one of America’s most enduring performance venues.
Victorian elegance and modern technology coexist beautifully in this intimate space that seats just over 900 patrons.
However, its size creates an up-close experience where you can practically feel the performers’ passion from any seat.
Visit at 28 Chestnut St, Portsmouth, NH 03801.
21. The Stone Pony – New Jersey
Bruce Springsteen made this Asbury Park club legendary, but countless other artists have kept the rock and roll dream alive here since 1974.
Jersey Shore grit and musical authenticity define the Stone Pony experience, where the focus stays on the music and the crowd energy does the rest.
Though the Boss might not show up every night, his spirit infuses every chord played on this hallowed stage.
The address is 913 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712.
20. Sunshine Theater – New Mexico
Built in 1939 as an art deco movie house, this Albuquerque venue now hosts diverse musical acts in a space dripping with vintage Southwestern charm.
Original architectural details transport you to another era, while modern sound systems keep performances sounding contemporary and crisp.
Because New Mexico sunsets are already magical, adding live music to the mix creates truly unforgettable evenings.
Find it at 120 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102.
19. Madison Square Garden – New York
Simply calling it an arena does not do justice to this New York City icon that has hosted history’s greatest performers since 1968.
From legendary rock concerts to unforgettable award shows, MSG represents the ultimate achievement for any touring artist worldwide.
Ultimately, performing at The Garden means you have truly made it in the music business.
Located at 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001.
18. The Orange Peel – North Carolina
Asheville’s premier music venue occupies a former industrial building that now pulses with eclectic sounds every night of the week.
Rolling Stone named it one of the best clubs in America, and one visit explains why musicians and fans alike rave about this place.
While the Blue Ridge Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, the real magic happens inside when the lights go down.
The address is 101 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801.
17. Fargodome – North Dakota
This multi-purpose dome serves as North Dakota’s largest indoor venue, hosting major concerts alongside sporting events and conventions.
Seating over 19,000 for concerts, the Fargodome brings stadium-sized acts to a state that might otherwise miss out on major tours.
Gently, the dome reminds us that even in colder climates, the warmth of live music brings communities together year-round.
Visit at 1800 University Dr N, Fargo, ND 58102.
16. Blossom Music Center – Ohio
Surrounded by Cuyahoga Valley National Park since 1968, this outdoor amphitheater offers concerts in one of Ohio’s most beautiful natural settings.
Cleveland Orchestra calls it home during summer months, but rock, pop, and country acts also grace the stage beneath its distinctive pavilion roof.
Swiftly, sunset transforms the venue into something magical when golden light filters through surrounding trees during performances.
Located at 1145 W Steels Corners Rd, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223.
15. Cain’s Ballroom – Oklahoma
Western swing was born in this Tulsa dance hall during the 1930s when Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys held regular broadcasts from the stage.
Today the venue hosts diverse acts while maintaining its vintage character, complete with the original spring-loaded maple dance floor.
Rarely do venues preserve their history so lovingly while remaining relevant to contemporary music fans.
Find it at 423 N Main St, Tulsa, OK 74103.
14. McMenamins Crystal Ballroom – Oregon
Portland’s floating dance floor (yes, really floating!) has bounced to the rhythm of dancers since 1914.
Built on ball bearings and rockers, the floor creates a unique sensation when crowds move together during energetic performances.
Actually, experiencing the floor bounce beneath your feet while your favorite band plays ranks among Portland’s most distinctive concert experiences.
The address is 1332 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209.
13. The Met Philadelphia – Pennsylvania
Originally opened as an opera house in 1908, The Met underwent a spectacular transformation to become Philadelphia’s most stunning concert venue.
Gilded Age opulence meets modern concert technology in a space where every architectural detail commands attention and admiration.
Essentially, attending a show here feels like stepping into a time machine decorated by someone with impeccable taste.
Located at 858 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19130.
12. The Strand Ballroom & Theatre – Rhode Island
Providence’s restored 1915 vaudeville theater combines intimate theater seating with a flexible ballroom space for diverse entertainment options.
Original architectural features remind visitors of the golden age of performance while modern amenities ensure contemporary comfort and sound quality.
Perhaps you will catch a show in the theater upstairs, then dance the night away in the ballroom below.
Visit at 79–81 Washington St, Providence, RI 02903.
11. Charleston Music Hall – South Carolina
Housed in a beautifully renovated 1930s art deco building, this Charleston venue brings world-class acoustics to the heart of the historic district.
Intimate seating for just over 900 ensures every performance feels personal, whether you are seeing jazz legends or contemporary singer-songwriters.
Surprisingly, the venue’s commitment to acoustic excellence means even whispered lyrics carry perfectly to the back row.
The address is 37 John St, Charleston, SC 29403.
10. The District – South Dakota
Sioux Falls’ entertainment complex combines a concert space with on-site dining options and hangout areas, creating a one-stop destination for complete night-out experiences.
Flexible configurations allow the venue to host everything from intimate acoustic shows to high-energy rock concerts with equal success.
Ideally, you can grab dinner, catch a show, and hang out afterward without ever leaving the building.
Find it at 4521 W Empire Pl, Sioux Falls, SD 57106.
9. Ryman Auditorium – Tennessee
Known as the Mother Church of Country Music, this Nashville landmark has hosted legendary performances since 1892.
Originally built as a tabernacle, the Ryman became home to the Grand Ole Opry and helped define country music for generations of fans and artists.
Somehow, the wooden pews and stained glass windows make every performance feel sacred, regardless of the musical genre.
Located at 116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219.
8. ACL Live At The Moody Theater – Texas
Home to the legendary television show Austin City Limits since 2011, this venue continues a musical tradition that began in 1974.
State-of-the-art facilities and the show’s famous tapings make this downtown Austin landmark essential to understanding Texas music culture.
Fortunately, even when tapings are not happening, the venue hosts incredible concerts that capture Austin’s anything-goes musical spirit.
The address is 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701.
7. The Depot – Utah
Converted from a 1910 train depot, this Salt Lake City venue preserves industrial character while providing modern concert experiences.
Exposed brick, high ceilings, and the building’s railroad history create a unique atmosphere you will not find in purpose-built venues.
Naturally, the location near downtown makes catching a show here the perfect addition to any Salt Lake City adventure.
Visit at 13 N 400 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101.
6. Higher Ground – Vermont
Burlington’s premier music venue runs two main rooms, including the Ballroom and the Showcase Lounge, accommodating everything from intimate shows to large concerts.
Local and touring acts alike appreciate the venue’s excellent sound, enthusiastic crowds, and commitment to showcasing diverse musical styles.
Quietly, Higher Ground has become a must-play stop for bands touring New England who value quality over sheer size.
Located at 1214 Williston Rd, South Burlington, VT 05403.
5. The NorVa – Virginia
Norfolk’s beautifully restored 1917 vaudeville theater combines historic architecture with cutting-edge sound and lighting systems.
With capacity for 1,500 standing fans, The NorVa creates an energetic atmosphere that bigger venues struggle to match.
Personally, there is something special about seeing shows in a building that has hosted entertainment for over a century.
Find it at 317 Monticello Ave, Norfolk, VA 23510.
4. The Gorge Amphitheatre – Washington
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Columbia River, this outdoor venue offers arguably the most spectacular concert views on planet Earth.
Sunset performances here become spiritual experiences as the sky explodes with color above the dramatic canyon landscape below.
Absolutely, many fans consider The Gorge a pilgrimage destination where natural beauty and musical excellence merge into something transcendent.
The address is 754 Silica Rd NW, George, WA 98848.
3. Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center – West Virginia
Serving as West Virginia’s largest multi-purpose facility, this Charleston venue brings major touring acts to the Mountain State.
Flexible seating configurations accommodate concerts of various sizes, from intimate theater settings to full arena productions.
Thankfully, the venue’s central location makes it accessible to fans throughout West Virginia and neighboring states.
Located at 200 Civic Center Dr, Charleston, WV 25301.
2. The Rave/Eagles Club – Wisconsin
Milwaukee’s most eclectic venue occupies a historic 1927 building featuring multiple performance spaces with wildly different vibes.
From the ornate Eagles Ballroom to the intimate basement bars, each room offers a unique concert experience under one quirky roof.
Really, you could see three different shows here in one night and feel like you visited three completely different venues.
Visit at 2401 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233.
1. The Lincoln Theatre – Wyoming
Cheyenne’s lovingly restored 1915 vaudeville house brings live entertainment to Wyoming’s capital in a venue dripping with Western charm.
Original architectural details and period-appropriate renovations transport audiences to the early twentieth century while modern sound keeps performances contemporary.
However, the theater’s intimate size means you will never feel disconnected from performers on this historic stage.
The address is 1615 Central Ave, Cheyenne, WY 82001.
